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Foundations of Magic #1
Tatterdemalion
Deep runs the world of magic and desire.
Lindsay Carrington is a prisoner of his life first in the mundane world, then in the military testing facility where his parents sent him to have his magic dissected, studied and fixed . When he finally escapes, freedom comes at great cost. The man who rescues him from near death in a dark alley is far from a savior. He s a feral mage nearly as broken as Lindsay himself.
Dane knows better than to argue with the wind that summoned him to Lindsay s rescue, but playing nursemaid isn t the role he envisioned for himself in the battle to end the human campaign to control his people. In spite of his resistance, he is bound to the delicate, skittish mage who unwittingly harbors one of the greatest magical powers ever known.
Lindsay desperately hides his growing desire, sure that Dane could never reciprocate. Yet Dane lays his life on the line to protect him, restoring the one thing Lindsay thought was gone hope.
But true freedom to live and to love will elude Lindsay until he can regain his magic and win Dane s complete devotion. And survive long enough to do Contains graphic language, violence and explicit erotic content."
Lindsay Carrington is a prisoner of his life first in the mundane world, then in the military testing facility where his parents sent him to have his magic dissected, studied and fixed . When he finally escapes, freedom comes at great cost. The man who rescues him from near death in a dark alley is far from a savior. He s a feral mage nearly as broken as Lindsay himself.
Dane knows better than to argue with the wind that summoned him to Lindsay s rescue, but playing nursemaid isn t the role he envisioned for himself in the battle to end the human campaign to control his people. In spite of his resistance, he is bound to the delicate, skittish mage who unwittingly harbors one of the greatest magical powers ever known.
Lindsay desperately hides his growing desire, sure that Dane could never reciprocate. Yet Dane lays his life on the line to protect him, restoring the one thing Lindsay thought was gone hope.
But true freedom to live and to love will elude Lindsay until he can regain his magic and win Dane s complete devotion. And survive long enough to do Contains graphic language, violence and explicit erotic content."
197 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
7 people are currently reading
663 people want to read
About the author
Anah Crow
58 books195 followersUnder Construction!
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F.A.Q.
Do you want to participate in Generic_Author_Event?
Drop me a line, please! If you're looking for a book for donation or a blog post from me, I'm usually cool with that.Are you going to write a sequel to Some_Book_You_Wrote?
The up front answer is no, unless the book cover indicates that it's part of a series. If there's going to be a sequel to a book, you'll know once I've signed the contract.Who is this Dianne person?
Only the light of my life and all that rot. She e-sides here: http://www.foxwrites.com/ Without her, you wouldn't see much from me at all, not even the books that don't have her name on the cover.Do you read your email?
All the time. I think the question you want is do I answer my email? Occasionally. Badly. I'm a terrible, terrible emailer.You're reading X books at once?!
Only occasionally at once. I can read two books at the same time, but I get dizzy. Mostly, I just switch books depending on my mood. It's unusual for me to have less than four on the go at a time.Do you read reviews of your books?
No, sorry! I'm here, yes, but I prefer not to read reviews (no matter how lovely they are) because once a book has left my hands and is available to the readers, my relationship to it changes. It's all grown up. :) I have a clutter of booklings to nurture so they will join the others on your shelves.Will you read/review my book?
Sorry, but no. There are a number of reasons for this but the biggest is—I suck at doing these things. I'm a horrible procrastinator. I get wound up and then blank out what I'm supposed to do. My ADHD goes galumphing through my head like a bull in a china shop, wrecking everything.I'm a writer and you hated/loved my book!
I'm sure you're a lovely person, either way. Please have one or both of: "I'm sorry!" or "You're welcome!"Can I be excused now?
Of course you can! Thanks for reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
December 15, 2014
Betrayed, broken and reborn
What if you had something you never wanted and couldn't control? Lindsey's world is pain and more pain until the opportunity to make it all stop appears. Unleashed he scrambles for freedom. Dangerous.
Dane is the muscle for a group of powerful and quiet people pushing and pulling the world to meet the goals they foresee. He tracks down Lindsey and a new chapter begins for both.
Nice use of torture. Even nicer retribution. There's a keen, bright edge to the violence here that laughs at the pain as irrelevant, a paltry consequence to the bigger game. So, bloodthirsty--check. Then there's the fixing and the running and more killing. Action-packed with a strong romance that is quite sweet between a mage and a shapeshifter. 3.5-4 stars, rounding up
Overall, a violent cocktail rimmed in sugar.
What if you had something you never wanted and couldn't control? Lindsey's world is pain and more pain until the opportunity to make it all stop appears. Unleashed he scrambles for freedom. Dangerous.
Dane is the muscle for a group of powerful and quiet people pushing and pulling the world to meet the goals they foresee. He tracks down Lindsey and a new chapter begins for both.
Nice use of torture. Even nicer retribution. There's a keen, bright edge to the violence here that laughs at the pain as irrelevant, a paltry consequence to the bigger game. So, bloodthirsty--check. Then there's the fixing and the running and more killing. Action-packed with a strong romance that is quite sweet between a mage and a shapeshifter. 3.5-4 stars, rounding up
Overall, a violent cocktail rimmed in sugar.
Where other creatures, human creatures, could lie and deceive, animals were notoriously poor at anything but the most trivial dishonesty.
May 31, 2011
For lack of a better review, this was fantastic. So much going on and yet left me satisfied and wanting more at the same time. I have questions, a ton of them actually. It was like being dropped in the middle of a scene, with no back story. Not that it is bad, just I want more - bigger picture information - oh and I want more Dane and Lindsay!
May 18, 2010
4.5 stars
Tatterdemalion apparently means a person wearing ragged or tattered clothes, which is an apt description of the rather large main character Dane. Here the book plays on a really beloved pairing of the physically big, grunting man that is surprisingly tender and gentle with the tiny, cuddling but stubborn boy turned man. This is a combo that’s been used and abused so poorly in the past that the characters have been bad stereotypes in many, many novels. Yet here the great writing and really skillful handling shines through in creating a fabulously entertaining and incredibly satisfying start to what has to be a series.
The plot sets up the urban fantasy setting with mostly a modern atmosphere but with the inclusion of magic and mages. There are several kinds of mages and whenever there is something different, there is the evil group that is doing medical experiments on them. Thankfully the story kept this element both realistic and interesting by showing Lindsay at the beginning of the story as he is subjected to the experiments of his captors while they attempt to subdue his magic ability. This is just a quick scene and shouldn’t bother readers but will definitely accomplish its goal in quickly immersing the reader into the setting and creating sympathy for the broken, tortured young man in Lindsay. This thread is carried throughout the book as the group attempts to re-capture Lindsay while he and the misfit group he’s joined are trying to heal Lindsay’s magic.
The quick pace is not always even and trips in a few places. For example, the first excursion into the forest slows the pace and I actually put the book down, somewhat bored, but after that the story picks up pretty quickly again. There are a few more stumbles as the plot makes some odd twists and turns and throws details in during odd scenes but the engaging narrator and great characters carry the story and keep it interesting regardless. This is helped with the solid world building that is really good yet creates noticeable holes and some confusion. Part of this is the inherent difficulty in trying to explain magic and how certain events can happen so the story takes the right road in not even trying. This may require you to simply go with the flow of things but it’s worth it.
The characters are really engaging and as I said at the start, they play on well known types that could have been horrible but with the excellent writing and deft touch, they come across as fabulous. Lindsay is the tortured young illusion mage from the beginning, lost and weak but he gradually grows mental and physical strength. In some ways he’s the classic small bottom character as he’s constantly snuggling, cuddling, tucking up against Dane’s larger presence. Lindsay’s tiny stature is emphasized frequently against Dane’s physically imposing body just as Lindsay’s quiet pout is often shown with Dane’s tender care and gruff affection. A nice change from predictable men is that Lindsey is definitely the sexual instigator. Dane is not shy at all but Lindsey goes after what he wants, which leads to some incredibly hot and squirm making sex scenes.
Some of this could be over the top and may annoy some since it happens almost all the time. Dane is frequently comforting and touching Lindsay, who seeks Dane out for their connection and feeling of safety. I found it really likable and adorable, even as Dane is not meant to be cute in that way. I liked Dane’s gruff, standoffish manner but protective and considerate of Lindsay. They may not be the most exciting and new of characters at their core but there is something incredibly satisfying and enjoyable about both of them plus with just enough new details to keep them interesting. There are no declarations of undying love either but quiet confidence that they’ll be together. As seen in the following snippet when Lindsay sees Dane’s room for the first time:
It was so different from the room they’d given to Lindsay. Where Lindsay’s room was furnished and ornate, with a large fireplace to keep it warm, Dane’s was spartan. It was definitely Dane’s, though. Lindsay’s room could have been mistaken for anyone’s—there were no personal items but his clothes. In Dane’s room, the books and the furniture had obviously been gathered over years, each thing kept because it mattered. And here Lindsay was, with all the rest of the things Dane wanted to keep.
The ending is left somewhat hanging with the threat from the military organization still present and the colorful cast of characters creates a great start for more stories. Dane shines as the incredibly stubborn, tortured mage with his own redemption on the horizon while Lindsay will no doubt charm readers and wiggle his way into their hearts. It doesn’t really matter that this may not be perfect because it’s that much fun to read with a satisfying and pretty romantic ending. The gritty urban fantasy setting is detailed enough to engage fans of the genre while the mixture of romance, action, magic, and hot sex delivers a simply great story. Get this as soon as it’s available.
Tatterdemalion apparently means a person wearing ragged or tattered clothes, which is an apt description of the rather large main character Dane. Here the book plays on a really beloved pairing of the physically big, grunting man that is surprisingly tender and gentle with the tiny, cuddling but stubborn boy turned man. This is a combo that’s been used and abused so poorly in the past that the characters have been bad stereotypes in many, many novels. Yet here the great writing and really skillful handling shines through in creating a fabulously entertaining and incredibly satisfying start to what has to be a series.
The plot sets up the urban fantasy setting with mostly a modern atmosphere but with the inclusion of magic and mages. There are several kinds of mages and whenever there is something different, there is the evil group that is doing medical experiments on them. Thankfully the story kept this element both realistic and interesting by showing Lindsay at the beginning of the story as he is subjected to the experiments of his captors while they attempt to subdue his magic ability. This is just a quick scene and shouldn’t bother readers but will definitely accomplish its goal in quickly immersing the reader into the setting and creating sympathy for the broken, tortured young man in Lindsay. This thread is carried throughout the book as the group attempts to re-capture Lindsay while he and the misfit group he’s joined are trying to heal Lindsay’s magic.
The quick pace is not always even and trips in a few places. For example, the first excursion into the forest slows the pace and I actually put the book down, somewhat bored, but after that the story picks up pretty quickly again. There are a few more stumbles as the plot makes some odd twists and turns and throws details in during odd scenes but the engaging narrator and great characters carry the story and keep it interesting regardless. This is helped with the solid world building that is really good yet creates noticeable holes and some confusion. Part of this is the inherent difficulty in trying to explain magic and how certain events can happen so the story takes the right road in not even trying. This may require you to simply go with the flow of things but it’s worth it.
The characters are really engaging and as I said at the start, they play on well known types that could have been horrible but with the excellent writing and deft touch, they come across as fabulous. Lindsay is the tortured young illusion mage from the beginning, lost and weak but he gradually grows mental and physical strength. In some ways he’s the classic small bottom character as he’s constantly snuggling, cuddling, tucking up against Dane’s larger presence. Lindsay’s tiny stature is emphasized frequently against Dane’s physically imposing body just as Lindsay’s quiet pout is often shown with Dane’s tender care and gruff affection. A nice change from predictable men is that Lindsey is definitely the sexual instigator. Dane is not shy at all but Lindsey goes after what he wants, which leads to some incredibly hot and squirm making sex scenes.
Some of this could be over the top and may annoy some since it happens almost all the time. Dane is frequently comforting and touching Lindsay, who seeks Dane out for their connection and feeling of safety. I found it really likable and adorable, even as Dane is not meant to be cute in that way. I liked Dane’s gruff, standoffish manner but protective and considerate of Lindsay. They may not be the most exciting and new of characters at their core but there is something incredibly satisfying and enjoyable about both of them plus with just enough new details to keep them interesting. There are no declarations of undying love either but quiet confidence that they’ll be together. As seen in the following snippet when Lindsay sees Dane’s room for the first time:
It was so different from the room they’d given to Lindsay. Where Lindsay’s room was furnished and ornate, with a large fireplace to keep it warm, Dane’s was spartan. It was definitely Dane’s, though. Lindsay’s room could have been mistaken for anyone’s—there were no personal items but his clothes. In Dane’s room, the books and the furniture had obviously been gathered over years, each thing kept because it mattered. And here Lindsay was, with all the rest of the things Dane wanted to keep.
The ending is left somewhat hanging with the threat from the military organization still present and the colorful cast of characters creates a great start for more stories. Dane shines as the incredibly stubborn, tortured mage with his own redemption on the horizon while Lindsay will no doubt charm readers and wiggle his way into their hearts. It doesn’t really matter that this may not be perfect because it’s that much fun to read with a satisfying and pretty romantic ending. The gritty urban fantasy setting is detailed enough to engage fans of the genre while the mixture of romance, action, magic, and hot sex delivers a simply great story. Get this as soon as it’s available.
July 3, 2010
Oh. My. Goodness. This is actually a 4.5
Are you looking for an easy, unchallenging read, full of cliches? Then do not read this book. Are you looking for the same old tired m/m plot lines? Then don't read this book. Do you need to have everything explained to you upfront in great, info-dumping detail? Have all your questions answered? Then Don't Read This Book.
From the first heart-pounding scene to the last, Tatterdemalion seizes the reader in both taloned fists and refuses to let go. Action and violence enough to satisfy the adventure-lover, sex both tender and heated to satisfy the erotic lover, and world building enough, ah, yes, to satisfy the fantasy lover.
World building. So often lost in erotic romance or scattered about in such scant and negligent detail to feel almost insulting. Not. Here. Breathe it in. Let it take you. The fairy house in the woods was painted in such wonderful detail. The grime and grit of alleys. The anthill scurry and anxiety of airports. I'm so often busy analyzing that I forget to enjoy. I enjoyed, and often became anxious, actually Anxious for the characters, so much so that I snapped at my family to go away during tense scenes.
The characters? On the surface, you may think you see the classic m/m romance couple - Big Tough Man and little pretty man (boy). Ah, but it's only surface. Our Alpha is not cast from the typical mold - Dane is damaged and confused by human interaction more often than not. And Lindsay, though horribly broken in mind and spirit, is hardly the cringing flower in need of constant rescue. The growth, together and separately, was both satisfying and believable. There's enough left open at the end where there could be more, but I didn't feel it was necessary. If the writers want to leave us there, I'm content.
There were a couple of pacing oddities, but these were minor bumps and I did sort of cock my head to the side like a puzzled terrier when Lindsay never really confronts that fact that he killed a heck of a lot of people. He understands it was horrible, though it was a desperate sort of accident on his part, but he sort of holds the knowledge at arms' length, I thought.
Want some lovely writing and a ripping good story? Want characters who get to keep some of their secrets and who dare you not to fall in love with them? Read. This. Book.
Are you looking for an easy, unchallenging read, full of cliches? Then do not read this book. Are you looking for the same old tired m/m plot lines? Then don't read this book. Do you need to have everything explained to you upfront in great, info-dumping detail? Have all your questions answered? Then Don't Read This Book.
From the first heart-pounding scene to the last, Tatterdemalion seizes the reader in both taloned fists and refuses to let go. Action and violence enough to satisfy the adventure-lover, sex both tender and heated to satisfy the erotic lover, and world building enough, ah, yes, to satisfy the fantasy lover.
World building. So often lost in erotic romance or scattered about in such scant and negligent detail to feel almost insulting. Not. Here. Breathe it in. Let it take you. The fairy house in the woods was painted in such wonderful detail. The grime and grit of alleys. The anthill scurry and anxiety of airports. I'm so often busy analyzing that I forget to enjoy. I enjoyed, and often became anxious, actually Anxious for the characters, so much so that I snapped at my family to go away during tense scenes.
The characters? On the surface, you may think you see the classic m/m romance couple - Big Tough Man and little pretty man (boy). Ah, but it's only surface. Our Alpha is not cast from the typical mold - Dane is damaged and confused by human interaction more often than not. And Lindsay, though horribly broken in mind and spirit, is hardly the cringing flower in need of constant rescue. The growth, together and separately, was both satisfying and believable. There's enough left open at the end where there could be more, but I didn't feel it was necessary. If the writers want to leave us there, I'm content.
There were a couple of pacing oddities, but these were minor bumps and I did sort of cock my head to the side like a puzzled terrier when Lindsay never really confronts that fact that he killed a heck of a lot of people. He understands it was horrible, though it was a desperate sort of accident on his part, but he sort of holds the knowledge at arms' length, I thought.
Want some lovely writing and a ripping good story? Want characters who get to keep some of their secrets and who dare you not to fall in love with them? Read. This. Book.
October 12, 2017
I don't know what happened here. I read Slow Bloom and Uneven and this, in comparison, is a complete and utter chaos.
It has all of the elements of a potentially good story, but at the same time there are lot of things missing (like first two chapters, for example) and there are a lot of things that do not need to be in the book at all.
Some of the "WTH" moments, clumsy sentences aside:
I love Anah Crow's books and I was looking forward to this one. Many things in this book appealed to me: a big bad alpha male with a gentle side, a poor little mansel in distress, shifters, ancient magic and even demented nurse Mildred Ratched ...er ...Dr. Moore (lo-o-oved the evilness!). But somehow I feel cheated and disappointed. 3 stars.
It has all of the elements of a potentially good story, but at the same time there are lot of things missing (like first two chapters, for example) and there are a lot of things that do not need to be in the book at all.
Some of the "WTH" moments, clumsy sentences aside:
I love Anah Crow's books and I was looking forward to this one. Many things in this book appealed to me: a big bad alpha male with a gentle side, a poor little mansel in distress, shifters, ancient magic and even demented nurse Mildred Ratched ...er ...Dr. Moore (lo-o-oved the evilness!). But somehow I feel cheated and disappointed. 3 stars.
February 28, 2012
The story started out well, with poor Lindsey being tortured and then poor Lindsey escaping, I was interested in his sad sob story. Then Dane was introduced and I even liked him too.. Both Characters though I didn't get that special connection that is so vital at the beginning of a book. It felt like I was missing information on them both. Not to mention that the characters arn't consistent and I don't like how they interact unrealistically.
April 21, 2016
The story started out well, poor Lindsey being tortured and then escaping, I was interested in his story. Then Dane was introduced and I liked him too. So what went wrong? The continuous use of words like; petting, snuggle, and cuddle. Dane kept referring to Lindsey as 'little bunny' and then they have hot sex. Hetero romances aren't this fluffy. The author crafted a dark interesting world and all the fluff ruined it.
August 22, 2010
WOW!
I'm surprised! I enjoy so much Lindsay and Dane love story!
I could give 5 stars but there was a little problem...
I like so much all the mages details and how the magic was explain! I keep reading without stop mesmerized but the action, suspense and romantic scenes of this book.
And, the incredible sweet grow of affection between the two main character is perfect! Dane will try to fight against this love (it's not a homophobic fear, but a fear of get involved with anyone... he don't want to love and be loved, just that) so you will read the slow evolve of this great love. It's a good challenge to read a book where the pair don't get involved immediately (some times I get annoyed), and I guarantee you that this book is well structured and you will enjoy it.
Finally I love the beauty and beast theme of this book! Dane is a "broken" shifter and is stuck as a human with some feline aspects, and that leave him always acting and thinking almost like an animal... but Lindsay don't care! He desire the men, for his kindness and courage, not for his aspect. I just love tormented hero, so I enjoy read also this in this book.
Read this:
and some pages after...
hummmm......
well... you can say that it's a repetition that was done on purpose, but to me is a little annoying read the same thing two times... the second time I thought: "Again? I get this later, why are you telling me again that all of that house seem like a children's book illustration?"
But, take a look in this excerpt! It's certainly a well written book! I found only that repetition problem, and as I said before, maybe it's not an error.
So 4 stars! And ALMOST get my 5 stars!!!
PS: don't freak out but the story don't has a true end... well, it's clearly a serie, and a lot is let to be told. But the end of this book is good, and I like it very much! I'll read more of this serie! One book with Dane and Lindsay was not enough! I want more!
I'm surprised! I enjoy so much Lindsay and Dane love story!
I could give 5 stars but there was a little problem...
****Deserve 5 stars because....****
I like so much all the mages details and how the magic was explain! I keep reading without stop mesmerized but the action, suspense and romantic scenes of this book.
And, the incredible sweet grow of affection between the two main character is perfect! Dane will try to fight against this love (it's not a homophobic fear, but a fear of get involved with anyone... he don't want to love and be loved, just that) so you will read the slow evolve of this great love. It's a good challenge to read a book where the pair don't get involved immediately (some times I get annoyed), and I guarantee you that this book is well structured and you will enjoy it.
Finally I love the beauty and beast theme of this book! Dane is a "broken" shifter and is stuck as a human with some feline aspects, and that leave him always acting and thinking almost like an animal... but Lindsay don't care! He desire the men, for his kindness and courage, not for his aspect. I just love tormented hero, so I enjoy read also this in this book.
****But I gave 4 stars because...****
Read this:
It was not the architecture or the furniture, though that looked like it had been designed from the illustrations of a children's book.
and some pages after...
Taniel took Lindsay to a kitchen that looked like an illustration from a child's book
hummmm......
well... you can say that it's a repetition that was done on purpose, but to me is a little annoying read the same thing two times... the second time I thought: "Again? I get this later, why are you telling me again that all of that house seem like a children's book illustration?"
But, take a look in this excerpt! It's certainly a well written book! I found only that repetition problem, and as I said before, maybe it's not an error.
So 4 stars! And ALMOST get my 5 stars!!!
PS: don't freak out but the story don't has a true end... well, it's clearly a serie, and a lot is let to be told. But the end of this book is good, and I like it very much! I'll read more of this serie! One book with Dane and Lindsay was not enough! I want more!
June 17, 2012
4.5 stars. Very good paranormal m/m romance about a young mage who's been imprisoned and experimented on until he manages to break free, then is rescued by a man who isn't exactly human... I wish there'd been a bit more backstory and am very glad that I have the sequel queued up to read.
May 25, 2017
I got as far as and I really wasn't enjoying this book. I don't understand the people who 'save' Lindsay, especially the old dude who is totally obsessed with Lindsay and Dane not hooking up, and Dane himself just gives off a super confusing vibe. I don't get Dane ... I don't get the darkness of the world ... I don't get the old dude ... I just ... don't get it.
June 17, 2012
4.5
Dane is a cursed shifter whose mage “boss” sends him to rescue a young mage who has been held against his will when his rich political family decided they wanted him “cured” of his magic. He’s basically been tortured and experimented on for two years. Dane is then assigned to take charge of Lindsay and help him get his magic fixed and thus begins their journey to Germany, Mexico, back and home all while trying to stay one or two steps ahead of the bad guys who are determined to get Lindsay back. I really liked this. I liked that it was an adventure story as they dealt with all the fixing magic thing and I liked the relationship as hard-ass loner Dane comes to care for Lindsay and while Lindsay is physically frail at first, he’s strong inside and never broke in captivity. They compliment each other well. I understand there will be a sequel, I hope so because the ending did not clarify what happened to the bad guys and brought up some other kinds of mages but then didn’t say more so I was left with more questions than answers but if it’s setting up for more that would be good. I keep saying Dane calls Lindsay “little bunny” which I found cute but I know some people hate stories with pet names, but it seemed fitting. Anyway, this is one of my fave books I’ve read recently and I know it stuck with me if I find myself lying in bed thinking about it days after the fact. That’s my “clue” that it worked for me in a big way.
Merged review:
Dane is a cursed shifter whose mage “boss” sends him to rescue a young mage who has been held against his will when his rich political family decided they wanted him “cured” of his magic. He’s basically been tortured and experimented on for two years. Dane is then assigned to take charge of Lindsay and help him get his magic fixed and thus begins their journey to Germany, Mexico, back and home all while trying to stay one or two steps ahead of the bad guys who are determined to get Lindsay back. I really liked this. I liked that it was an adventure story as they dealt with all the fixing magic thing and I liked the relationship as hard-ass loner Dane comes to care for Lindsay and while Lindsay is physically frail at first, he’s strong inside and never broke in captivity. They compliment each other well. I understand there will be a sequel, I hope so because the ending did not clarify what happened to the bad guys and brought up some other kinds of mages but then didn’t say more so I was left with more questions than answers but if it’s setting up for more that would be good. I keep saying Dane calls Lindsay “little bunny” which I found cute but I know some people hate stories with pet names, but it seemed fitting. Anyway, this is one of my fave books I’ve read recently and I know it stuck with me if I find myself lying in bed thinking about it days after the fact. That’s my “clue” that it worked for me in a big way.
Dane is a cursed shifter whose mage “boss” sends him to rescue a young mage who has been held against his will when his rich political family decided they wanted him “cured” of his magic. He’s basically been tortured and experimented on for two years. Dane is then assigned to take charge of Lindsay and help him get his magic fixed and thus begins their journey to Germany, Mexico, back and home all while trying to stay one or two steps ahead of the bad guys who are determined to get Lindsay back. I really liked this. I liked that it was an adventure story as they dealt with all the fixing magic thing and I liked the relationship as hard-ass loner Dane comes to care for Lindsay and while Lindsay is physically frail at first, he’s strong inside and never broke in captivity. They compliment each other well. I understand there will be a sequel, I hope so because the ending did not clarify what happened to the bad guys and brought up some other kinds of mages but then didn’t say more so I was left with more questions than answers but if it’s setting up for more that would be good. I keep saying Dane calls Lindsay “little bunny” which I found cute but I know some people hate stories with pet names, but it seemed fitting. Anyway, this is one of my fave books I’ve read recently and I know it stuck with me if I find myself lying in bed thinking about it days after the fact. That’s my “clue” that it worked for me in a big way.
Merged review:
Dane is a cursed shifter whose mage “boss” sends him to rescue a young mage who has been held against his will when his rich political family decided they wanted him “cured” of his magic. He’s basically been tortured and experimented on for two years. Dane is then assigned to take charge of Lindsay and help him get his magic fixed and thus begins their journey to Germany, Mexico, back and home all while trying to stay one or two steps ahead of the bad guys who are determined to get Lindsay back. I really liked this. I liked that it was an adventure story as they dealt with all the fixing magic thing and I liked the relationship as hard-ass loner Dane comes to care for Lindsay and while Lindsay is physically frail at first, he’s strong inside and never broke in captivity. They compliment each other well. I understand there will be a sequel, I hope so because the ending did not clarify what happened to the bad guys and brought up some other kinds of mages but then didn’t say more so I was left with more questions than answers but if it’s setting up for more that would be good. I keep saying Dane calls Lindsay “little bunny” which I found cute but I know some people hate stories with pet names, but it seemed fitting. Anyway, this is one of my fave books I’ve read recently and I know it stuck with me if I find myself lying in bed thinking about it days after the fact. That’s my “clue” that it worked for me in a big way.
July 20, 2010
3.5 Star
A man of few words and many grunts, Dane, a lion, shape shifter or other since I still haven’t quite figured it out, till the end when all was revealed to me and he is written truly as the beast he’s being portrayed as in this book. The way he’s written from his dark, ruggedly handsome looks too his height and build, right down to his vocabulary when he converses and his tenderness for Lindsay is a very admirable trait for such a man as he. It just worked for me. It’s a shame that in here he’s treated as a pet by most yet not by some. He could have been appreciated more which I found frustrating. He’s a great big lovable guy.
Lindsay on the other hand is charming even though he is broken by the two years of torture and abuse he’d sustained at the hands of sadistic assholes who I had felt didn’t give worth a damn for him, but rather for their own gain. I got the impression by this institute where his folks, caring more of their own image than their child, had him committed to be ‘fixed’ of his magical mage tendencies that at first assumption it reminded me of those institutes or rather brainwashing places to fix you of being gay. The high quality similarities drew me in that direction. Lindsay if not very shy and timid is lovable and cute.
Dane hesitates in his growing feelings for Lindsay because of the consequences should he soil him, but Lindsay more than makes his feelings clear to Dane and they forsaken all others as they reach out and express themselves, express their growing feelings and discover what they both have been missing. Their bond is strong and they compliment one another in comfort, trust and support each other.
The downside: There were at times I tended to zone in and out of the story. You’ll find it very descriptive throughout and I had moments where I wasn’t sure what I was reading and had to backtracks my steps and reread them. Simple read yet very much filled with fantasy of epic proportions that made me loopy. Demons, mages, wizards and fae fill the words of these pages in the adventure to make Lindsay right and whole again in his magic, body and soul.
The upside: There was the possibility threat for me that there was on more than one occasion the potential to exploit a m/f sexual encounter, but this was handled with such discretion and care that it was kept closeted and hidden behind closed doors. Much to my relief the insinuation that this occurred was there but the details were left unknown and to the imagination. Thanks to both authors and I commend you both for pulling this off for us readers that abhor these types of scenes in gay novels. Two thumbs up.
A man of few words and many grunts, Dane, a lion, shape shifter or other since I still haven’t quite figured it out, till the end when all was revealed to me and he is written truly as the beast he’s being portrayed as in this book. The way he’s written from his dark, ruggedly handsome looks too his height and build, right down to his vocabulary when he converses and his tenderness for Lindsay is a very admirable trait for such a man as he. It just worked for me. It’s a shame that in here he’s treated as a pet by most yet not by some. He could have been appreciated more which I found frustrating. He’s a great big lovable guy.
Lindsay on the other hand is charming even though he is broken by the two years of torture and abuse he’d sustained at the hands of sadistic assholes who I had felt didn’t give worth a damn for him, but rather for their own gain. I got the impression by this institute where his folks, caring more of their own image than their child, had him committed to be ‘fixed’ of his magical mage tendencies that at first assumption it reminded me of those institutes or rather brainwashing places to fix you of being gay. The high quality similarities drew me in that direction. Lindsay if not very shy and timid is lovable and cute.
Dane hesitates in his growing feelings for Lindsay because of the consequences should he soil him, but Lindsay more than makes his feelings clear to Dane and they forsaken all others as they reach out and express themselves, express their growing feelings and discover what they both have been missing. Their bond is strong and they compliment one another in comfort, trust and support each other.
The downside: There were at times I tended to zone in and out of the story. You’ll find it very descriptive throughout and I had moments where I wasn’t sure what I was reading and had to backtracks my steps and reread them. Simple read yet very much filled with fantasy of epic proportions that made me loopy. Demons, mages, wizards and fae fill the words of these pages in the adventure to make Lindsay right and whole again in his magic, body and soul.
The upside: There was the possibility threat for me that there was on more than one occasion the potential to exploit a m/f sexual encounter, but this was handled with such discretion and care that it was kept closeted and hidden behind closed doors. Much to my relief the insinuation that this occurred was there but the details were left unknown and to the imagination. Thanks to both authors and I commend you both for pulling this off for us readers that abhor these types of scenes in gay novels. Two thumbs up.
Read
December 4, 2010This is a luscious urban fantasy story that reminded me one of my favorite tv fiction, the one with a leo man living in an underground New York City. And I think the authors wanted also to play a bit with old legends and modern romance: the two main characters are a shapeshifter leo (even if until the end the reader and the other man is not understanding exactly what type of leo and how magical he is), Dane, who is gentle and caring, and as the hero of my youth favorite tv show, even if he has a royal presence and attitude, he is indead almost a servant of other characters; the other man, boy, is fragile and delicate in body and name, Lindsay, and he is the one Dane has to protect and cherish.
To play along with the imaginery, and to a point that reminded me almost a Fedro or Esopo’s fable, Dane is a leo and he calls Lindsay little bunny; moreover Cyrus, the man who seems to have power on Dane’s actions, asks Dane to take care of Lindsay, basically he is asking to a leo to take care of a bunny, it’s like a mythical temptation, exactly like in those fables of above. The animal metaphor is subdetly used again when Dane and Lindsay, for most part of the book, instead of having sex, are mostly cuddling: better Lindsay is searching for Dane’s big body like a shelter, a comfort blanket, a source of warm and protection; and Lindsay is like the little bunny who, unaware of the hazard of being near a leo, awakes the sleeping leo.
I think this novel was mostly concentrated around Lindsay: not only he is younger, and still in a developing phase, but he is the one who has to learn about his power and gain enough self-esteem to be a right companion to the big leo. Dane is a little of a mystery, but the mystery is right with his character: a leo has that aurea around him, of royal power, but indead, what exactly a leo does, if not protect his relatives, only if strictly necessary, lazly sleep and make love to his partner? It’s not the leo who has to do most of the work, basically his task is to protect and being strong for his dear ones.
As often in the urban fantasy with a New York setting, the story has a “gothic” feeling, that is strengthened by the habitat where Dane is living and Lindsay is brought; a big mansion with multiple floors, strange inhabitants; even when Dane and Lindsay go out, in the daylight, the feeling was always of a gloomy day and the idea was confirmed by the revelation of Dane “true” nature. The authors managed to mix different sources, mythological, fairy, gothic, and created a good melting pot that has plently of cues for other adventures.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1609280822/?...
To play along with the imaginery, and to a point that reminded me almost a Fedro or Esopo’s fable, Dane is a leo and he calls Lindsay little bunny; moreover Cyrus, the man who seems to have power on Dane’s actions, asks Dane to take care of Lindsay, basically he is asking to a leo to take care of a bunny, it’s like a mythical temptation, exactly like in those fables of above. The animal metaphor is subdetly used again when Dane and Lindsay, for most part of the book, instead of having sex, are mostly cuddling: better Lindsay is searching for Dane’s big body like a shelter, a comfort blanket, a source of warm and protection; and Lindsay is like the little bunny who, unaware of the hazard of being near a leo, awakes the sleeping leo.
I think this novel was mostly concentrated around Lindsay: not only he is younger, and still in a developing phase, but he is the one who has to learn about his power and gain enough self-esteem to be a right companion to the big leo. Dane is a little of a mystery, but the mystery is right with his character: a leo has that aurea around him, of royal power, but indead, what exactly a leo does, if not protect his relatives, only if strictly necessary, lazly sleep and make love to his partner? It’s not the leo who has to do most of the work, basically his task is to protect and being strong for his dear ones.
As often in the urban fantasy with a New York setting, the story has a “gothic” feeling, that is strengthened by the habitat where Dane is living and Lindsay is brought; a big mansion with multiple floors, strange inhabitants; even when Dane and Lindsay go out, in the daylight, the feeling was always of a gloomy day and the idea was confirmed by the revelation of Dane “true” nature. The authors managed to mix different sources, mythological, fairy, gothic, and created a good melting pot that has plently of cues for other adventures.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1609280822/?...
October 16, 2012
Little hard to follow at times, but an interesting story overall
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 7/10
PROS:
- The first scene is both exciting and unusual, so I was hooked right from the start. The plot continued to keep me entertained all the way through to the end, simply because it’s a little different than anything I’ve read before.
- The hurt/comfort storyline is done very well here. Dane is strong and wild almost constantly except for when Lindsay is with him; then he’s tender and gentle and reassuring.
- These authors are good at illustrating concepts rather than simply telling the reader, “This is the way it was.” The first chapter, for example, does an excellent job of showing how powerful Lindsay’s magic is without ever actually saying that he’s powerful.
- I loved that Dane isn’t a devilishly good-looking character. I thought he was incredibly sexy, but that projection comes entirely from his thoughts and actions, not from his physical appearance (which is hulking and fierce and even a little frightening).
CONS:
- Crow and Fox do a really good job of showing Lindsay’s desire for Dane as it grows and becomes almost unmanageable. They show almost none of that with Dane, though (at least not until well into the story). He’s possessive of Lindsay, but it’s in an animalistic, marking-my-territory sort of way. For the first half of the book, at least, I was under the impression that Dane was basically just tolerating Lindsay (or at most, dallying with him because it was convenient).
- I found the story difficult to follow at times. Some things aren’t explained very clearly, and the men’s conversations often seem jumpy and disjointed. There are statements like this throughout the book, for instance--“Did you…before you told me?”--and sometimes the meaning is clear from the context, but other times I was left wondering, “Did he…what? Before he told you…what?”
Overall comments: This is a classic example of a “Chick with Brick” story: change Lindsay’s anatomy, and he could easily be a stereotypical Damsel in Distress. I enjoy such stories just fine; this is simply a warning to other readers who find them annoying--Lindsay is quite helpless on more than one occasion, and Dane routinely pets his lover and carries him around, refers to Lindsay as “little bunny,” etc. The book is also dark and has its fair share of violence, but I didn’t find those scenes overwhelmingly graphic. The descriptions of the violence get the point across without lingering unnecessarily.
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 7/10
PROS:
- The first scene is both exciting and unusual, so I was hooked right from the start. The plot continued to keep me entertained all the way through to the end, simply because it’s a little different than anything I’ve read before.
- The hurt/comfort storyline is done very well here. Dane is strong and wild almost constantly except for when Lindsay is with him; then he’s tender and gentle and reassuring.
- These authors are good at illustrating concepts rather than simply telling the reader, “This is the way it was.” The first chapter, for example, does an excellent job of showing how powerful Lindsay’s magic is without ever actually saying that he’s powerful.
- I loved that Dane isn’t a devilishly good-looking character. I thought he was incredibly sexy, but that projection comes entirely from his thoughts and actions, not from his physical appearance (which is hulking and fierce and even a little frightening).
CONS:
- Crow and Fox do a really good job of showing Lindsay’s desire for Dane as it grows and becomes almost unmanageable. They show almost none of that with Dane, though (at least not until well into the story). He’s possessive of Lindsay, but it’s in an animalistic, marking-my-territory sort of way. For the first half of the book, at least, I was under the impression that Dane was basically just tolerating Lindsay (or at most, dallying with him because it was convenient).
- I found the story difficult to follow at times. Some things aren’t explained very clearly, and the men’s conversations often seem jumpy and disjointed. There are statements like this throughout the book, for instance--“Did you…before you told me?”--and sometimes the meaning is clear from the context, but other times I was left wondering, “Did he…what? Before he told you…what?”
Overall comments: This is a classic example of a “Chick with Brick” story: change Lindsay’s anatomy, and he could easily be a stereotypical Damsel in Distress. I enjoy such stories just fine; this is simply a warning to other readers who find them annoying--Lindsay is quite helpless on more than one occasion, and Dane routinely pets his lover and carries him around, refers to Lindsay as “little bunny,” etc. The book is also dark and has its fair share of violence, but I didn’t find those scenes overwhelmingly graphic. The descriptions of the violence get the point across without lingering unnecessarily.
October 4, 2024
I am so confused. I like Anah Crow's book, Uneven. This one didn't do it as much for me. I don't know if I missed the first book or what is going on. I've pieced together some of the history, but I'm left with all these questions that make me go, WHAT ON EARTH!?
I did like Dane ~ the shifter who was cursed. He is someone I could definitely like and want to be around. Lindsay. Gah, the poor bugger. I hope he controls his magic more and then tortures those bastards. Dr. Moore needs to be tortured for years, killed, brought back to life and tortured some more. I want to listen to her screams. This woman is evil. "The girl" is just as bad. Torture her too. Gah, I loathe them.
I'm a bit mixed for this story because I don't understand who the enemy is and why they are the way they are. I'm tempted to read the next book to learn more about this world. I'm not sure if it is because Anah Crow didn't write this solo which is why it didn't do it as much for me. There was just something a bit different in this writing style that didn't appeal to me as much as Uneven. I think I'm going to stick to books she writes solo.
I did like Dane ~ the shifter who was cursed. He is someone I could definitely like and want to be around. Lindsay. Gah, the poor bugger. I hope he controls his magic more and then tortures those bastards. Dr. Moore needs to be tortured for years, killed, brought back to life and tortured some more. I want to listen to her screams. This woman is evil. "The girl" is just as bad. Torture her too. Gah, I loathe them.
I'm a bit mixed for this story because I don't understand who the enemy is and why they are the way they are. I'm tempted to read the next book to learn more about this world. I'm not sure if it is because Anah Crow didn't write this solo which is why it didn't do it as much for me. There was just something a bit different in this writing style that didn't appeal to me as much as Uneven. I think I'm going to stick to books she writes solo.
October 17, 2010
I grabbed this book because several people on my list give it at least 4 stars -- and I wholeheartedly agree with this.
The story of Lindsay and Dane just breaks my heart. Lindsay is so broken after the abuse that he suffers from and seeing him slowly grown into somebody that is strong enough, from a boy to a young man, touches my heart. And then, Dane, his rescuer, the one standing on Lindsay's side every step of the way. Oh, they're breaking my heart! Honestly, I don't really pay attention to the urban fantasy setting, I kinda skip all the magic talks *grin*. But I always savor the "private" scenes of Lindsay and Dane because they are tender and intimate. I love how Dane calls Lindsay his "little bunny".
If there's a sequel for this, I'm in!
The story of Lindsay and Dane just breaks my heart. Lindsay is so broken after the abuse that he suffers from and seeing him slowly grown into somebody that is strong enough, from a boy to a young man, touches my heart. And then, Dane, his rescuer, the one standing on Lindsay's side every step of the way. Oh, they're breaking my heart! Honestly, I don't really pay attention to the urban fantasy setting, I kinda skip all the magic talks *grin*. But I always savor the "private" scenes of Lindsay and Dane because they are tender and intimate. I love how Dane calls Lindsay his "little bunny".
If there's a sequel for this, I'm in!
September 7, 2011
The main characters could have been a cliché, Lindsay the abused boy, Dane the beast, yet they manage to get beyond the basic premise and engage the reader. You want to be witness to their redemption, you cheer when they move forward, cry when they have doubts or setbacks, bite your nailes when they are in danger, and in the end, enjoy their HEA. The universe they inhabit is richly detailed and believable. The secondary characters are never expendable.
For some reason, though, I felt like there was a whole book missing, a first book that I needed to read before I read this one. There's also a lot more I'd like to read about them, after the end of this book. If you've ever started a series in the second book, that's exactly how I feel with this one.
For some reason, though, I felt like there was a whole book missing, a first book that I needed to read before I read this one. There's also a lot more I'd like to read about them, after the end of this book. If you've ever started a series in the second book, that's exactly how I feel with this one.
July 12, 2017
This was an interesting (but not an easy) read. Definitely outside the usual fare that's offered. We are introduced to two damaged MC's. Their relationship is slow in building and not an easy road once started. At times I found the way the partnership was described slightly annoying; the strength of one and the neediness and insecurity of the other, but this wasn't enough to put me off the story.
I loved the world building. It was set in a modern time in RL settings, but with magic and an old-world feel overall..
The ending was finished, yet not. There are still issues left unsolved and open, yet it wasn't a cliff-hanger finish. I will definitely seek out the next installment.
I loved the world building. It was set in a modern time in RL settings, but with magic and an old-world feel overall..
The ending was finished, yet not. There are still issues left unsolved and open, yet it wasn't a cliff-hanger finish. I will definitely seek out the next installment.
October 3, 2010
The story was good and gripping enough, the characters interesting. It's a book I would definitely recommend.
What made me give it 4 instead of 5 stars is that I found it confusing and unfinished often. Like there was so much more to the story, but somehow it wasn't worth mentioning.
But like I said, it is a great and fun read. Very much worth the time.
What made me give it 4 instead of 5 stars is that I found it confusing and unfinished often. Like there was so much more to the story, but somehow it wasn't worth mentioning.
But like I said, it is a great and fun read. Very much worth the time.
June 29, 2010
loved the book. great characters, great story, great plot. great everything I just hope the second book will be released soon ^^
November 6, 2011
I didn't finish this one. Not my cup of tea. Maybe if I had given it more time, I may have gotten into it. I'm just not that patient.
January 16, 2015
Characters not fully realized, incomplete world building, missing inner monologues to explain character motivations. Lost patience after p. 159
June 21, 2015
4.5 STARS
Excellent UF
Excellent UF
October 31, 2021
Quite enjoyed this one, even if i felt a bit lost a times. Sometimes i felt like i was missing something in the story and would go back and re-read a section only to find that i wasn't. It was a bit odd. Other than that i was really engaged with Lindsay and Dane. I wish we could have gotten to see more of Dane's side of their developing feelings, but loved them together. It was a lot of packing Lindsay around and cuddling and ooey gooey "little bunny" from Dane and then he'd be all growly and a hulking beastie. I loved it. Lindsay was slowly growing into his magic and attempting to recover from the trauma of being basically given to a lab to "cure" him of something that was completely natural, being a mage. I enjoyed the growing love story while they were on the run from the bad guys and want to read the next in the series.
May 29, 2017
The whole book was very confusing. I spent most of it trying to guess what is happening, with no time or disposition to guess what was going to happen, however it was obvious that the good guys would beat the bad guys and the main characters would live happily ever after.
July 31, 2017
Wanted to like it more than I did, and that closing bit just dropped it from a 3 to a 2.
August 23, 2010
Some books are light, fun while they last, and a month later I don't really remember them. Then there's a book like Tatterdemalion, which I will remember.
Both protagonists are broken, and happily that damage, while heavy-duty, doesn't quite have the quality of baggage for the sake of baggage. The damage and the overcoming of it are integral to the evolution of the story. Dane, a gryphon shifter, inhabits a tattered body that can no longer shift. He is caught in between forms by broken magic (a curse?). He has lived long, seen much; he has a tired, spent quality to him that Crow and Fox manage to keep the right side of maudlin.
Lindsay, a human mage, has lost to abuse of a research variety the critical years of his life that otherwise would have seen him fulfill the transition from child to young man. He was betrayed by his family, then held captive and subjected to brutal testing for two years. He is emotionally broken - in many ways, still a child - and his magic is broken.
But Lindsay is necessary (for some reason we never learn in this book), presumably as a vital link in a conflict (the dimensions of which we do not learn) between two groups (the ultimate purposes and motivations of which we never learn). Dane is sent to rescue Lindsay, and later is charged with protecting and healing him.
The two gradually fall in love, and the progression of those feelings is sweetly handled. As is the sexual expression of them. The two heal each other in a variety of ways. Through Lindsay, Dane grasps a desire to restore himself; through Dane, Lindsay embraces his manhood and independent agency.
It's much easier to understand why Lindsay is drawn to this big, shambling but beautiful creature, as we are more often seeing the story from Linsay's POV. I'm less certain why Dane lets down his shields, though his growing desire to protect Lindsay is a big factor, and although on the surface they both agree Lindsay "belongs" to Dane, it is often Dane who ultimately longs to give Lindsay anything Lindsay wants. While Lindsay is the "receiver" throughout, what subtly develops between them is not your classic top/bottom relationship. I, like other readers, would have loved more of Dane's perspective in the story.
The world combines real-world settings as well as a magical place in the Black Forest. Magic lives alongside regular humans. There's a lot about this world that is not revealed - the conflict, who all the players are, why this is happening - but what is revealed appears carefully placed like a breadcrumb trail. Thankfully, there are no lengthy expositions detailing history and mechanics and psychologies. If this is indeed the first in a series, I hardly mind this. I'm more than content to go with the flow. If we never see the next in the series, I'm going to feel disappointed, because while Dane and Lindsay achieve a satisfying place between them, there are many loose threads.
Supporting characters are interesting, even though we don't always have an understanding of why they behave as they do. There aren't many cardboard caricatures here--even the "bad" guys have hints of depth.
The writing ranks among the best I've read in this genre. I had the rare editing quibble, and there's a fair amount of description, but I didn't feel the description ever set me outside the ambiance of the narrative. Overall, the pacing is very good; most things don't happen too fast for the flow (arguably the final capture/escape happens a little too quickly).
But it is the delightful deftness by which the authors grow this relationship that ultimately wins me over. An intriguing world, a beautiful love story, all well-written ... works for me! I yearn for the next installment.
Both protagonists are broken, and happily that damage, while heavy-duty, doesn't quite have the quality of baggage for the sake of baggage. The damage and the overcoming of it are integral to the evolution of the story. Dane, a gryphon shifter, inhabits a tattered body that can no longer shift. He is caught in between forms by broken magic (a curse?). He has lived long, seen much; he has a tired, spent quality to him that Crow and Fox manage to keep the right side of maudlin.
Lindsay, a human mage, has lost to abuse of a research variety the critical years of his life that otherwise would have seen him fulfill the transition from child to young man. He was betrayed by his family, then held captive and subjected to brutal testing for two years. He is emotionally broken - in many ways, still a child - and his magic is broken.
But Lindsay is necessary (for some reason we never learn in this book), presumably as a vital link in a conflict (the dimensions of which we do not learn) between two groups (the ultimate purposes and motivations of which we never learn). Dane is sent to rescue Lindsay, and later is charged with protecting and healing him.
The two gradually fall in love, and the progression of those feelings is sweetly handled. As is the sexual expression of them. The two heal each other in a variety of ways. Through Lindsay, Dane grasps a desire to restore himself; through Dane, Lindsay embraces his manhood and independent agency.
It's much easier to understand why Lindsay is drawn to this big, shambling but beautiful creature, as we are more often seeing the story from Linsay's POV. I'm less certain why Dane lets down his shields, though his growing desire to protect Lindsay is a big factor, and although on the surface they both agree Lindsay "belongs" to Dane, it is often Dane who ultimately longs to give Lindsay anything Lindsay wants. While Lindsay is the "receiver" throughout, what subtly develops between them is not your classic top/bottom relationship. I, like other readers, would have loved more of Dane's perspective in the story.
The world combines real-world settings as well as a magical place in the Black Forest. Magic lives alongside regular humans. There's a lot about this world that is not revealed - the conflict, who all the players are, why this is happening - but what is revealed appears carefully placed like a breadcrumb trail. Thankfully, there are no lengthy expositions detailing history and mechanics and psychologies. If this is indeed the first in a series, I hardly mind this. I'm more than content to go with the flow. If we never see the next in the series, I'm going to feel disappointed, because while Dane and Lindsay achieve a satisfying place between them, there are many loose threads.
Supporting characters are interesting, even though we don't always have an understanding of why they behave as they do. There aren't many cardboard caricatures here--even the "bad" guys have hints of depth.
The writing ranks among the best I've read in this genre. I had the rare editing quibble, and there's a fair amount of description, but I didn't feel the description ever set me outside the ambiance of the narrative. Overall, the pacing is very good; most things don't happen too fast for the flow (arguably the final capture/escape happens a little too quickly).
But it is the delightful deftness by which the authors grow this relationship that ultimately wins me over. An intriguing world, a beautiful love story, all well-written ... works for me! I yearn for the next installment.
May 26, 2014
Four stars? Five stars? I'm feeling generous, so why not five?
This book was intense in its characters and emotional connections, especially the ones I made with Lindsay and Dane. Lindsay was such a genuine character, that from the start I was engaged and nervous and hopeful for him. Being immediately thrust into the midst of a horrifyingly painful, loud, and scary torture scene hooked me right into the plot, and the momentum that created only sped up as I met Dane, watched them struggle through one obstacle to another, from fixing Lindsay's magic to evading recapture to keeping everyone safe, and watched their emotional relationship take root and grow stronger.
The many different types of magic in this book were fascinating to learn of, as each type of being had different magic that powered them. The fight scenes were also pretty intense and bloody, so fun to read about ;)
Twists and turns came that I didn't expect, as the story delved into the past as well as the present, and it all swirled beautifully together, was beautifully written.
However, I probably will not be reading the next book, because after the situation between Dane and Lindsay in this book--how Dane was possessive over Lindsay, Lindsay was jealous over Dane, how they kept repeating "only you," "you and me," "I'm yours," "mine," etc., branding each other as their own, and how Lindsay's first place to feel safe and wanted was with Dane (in his arms, wrapped up in his body)--I don't see how either Dane or Lindsay would be okay with the introduction of a third lover. Especially with how Dane is certain that Lindsay will outgrow him, to me that would be proof of that, in a way. Also, from the reviews I read of the sequel, it is not an m/m/m, but instead Dane is missing throughout a great deal of the book, so, at least from how it seems in my mind, it's more like cheating and becoming emotionally outside of their relationship. Also, if Dane was missing, how could Lindsay not feel guilty doing all that? Then again, I haven't read it, so I don't know the exact circumstances, but from how the characters in this book acted, I don't know how Dane or Lindsay would be okay with the third character being given to Lindsay just as Lindsay was previously given to Dane, or them becoming involved. Come on Cyrus, what were you thinking?! My favorite thing in this book was how the relationship bloomed between Dane and Lindsay, so for it to change, and Lindsay to focus on another man, makes me not want to read it at all. One of my least favorite things is cheating (unless the cheater gets serious consequences--which they so rarely do in most romances, where of course they end up together again at the end).
This book was intense in its characters and emotional connections, especially the ones I made with Lindsay and Dane. Lindsay was such a genuine character, that from the start I was engaged and nervous and hopeful for him. Being immediately thrust into the midst of a horrifyingly painful, loud, and scary torture scene hooked me right into the plot, and the momentum that created only sped up as I met Dane, watched them struggle through one obstacle to another, from fixing Lindsay's magic to evading recapture to keeping everyone safe, and watched their emotional relationship take root and grow stronger.
The many different types of magic in this book were fascinating to learn of, as each type of being had different magic that powered them. The fight scenes were also pretty intense and bloody, so fun to read about ;)
Twists and turns came that I didn't expect, as the story delved into the past as well as the present, and it all swirled beautifully together, was beautifully written.
However, I probably will not be reading the next book, because after the situation between Dane and Lindsay in this book--how Dane was possessive over Lindsay, Lindsay was jealous over Dane, how they kept repeating "only you," "you and me," "I'm yours," "mine," etc., branding each other as their own, and how Lindsay's first place to feel safe and wanted was with Dane (in his arms, wrapped up in his body)--I don't see how either Dane or Lindsay would be okay with the introduction of a third lover. Especially with how Dane is certain that Lindsay will outgrow him, to me that would be proof of that, in a way. Also, from the reviews I read of the sequel, it is not an m/m/m, but instead Dane is missing throughout a great deal of the book, so, at least from how it seems in my mind, it's more like cheating and becoming emotionally outside of their relationship. Also, if Dane was missing, how could Lindsay not feel guilty doing all that? Then again, I haven't read it, so I don't know the exact circumstances, but from how the characters in this book acted, I don't know how Dane or Lindsay would be okay with the third character being given to Lindsay just as Lindsay was previously given to Dane, or them becoming involved. Come on Cyrus, what were you thinking?! My favorite thing in this book was how the relationship bloomed between Dane and Lindsay, so for it to change, and Lindsay to focus on another man, makes me not want to read it at all. One of my least favorite things is cheating (unless the cheater gets serious consequences--which they so rarely do in most romances, where of course they end up together again at the end).
April 12, 2015
Lindsay Carrington is a young mage, held prisoner in some government facility, where he is being experiment on/tortured. He escaped one night, and is found, half dead, by a shifter named Dane, who took him to their headquarters. The experiments left Lindsay broken, as he cannot summon his magic without intense pain, and he is nowhere as powerful as he used to be. Dane is appointed to look after Lindsay and to help him to heal, all while the rogue government agents, and other supernatural enemies, are hot on their tail.
I really liked Lindsay as a MC. He is frail and physically weak after two years of starvation and experimentation, but he is emotionally strong, and very brave. He adores Dane from the first time he saw him, and he is very open and honest about his feelings and his weaknesses. He is much younger and physically weaker than Dane, but still feels like an equal partner.
Dane is physically strong, but he is also broken, as he was much stronger before some event, but he was cursed and is now caught halfway between being human and being feral. He is not described as thoroughly as is Lindsay, and I feel as if I didn't get to know him properly.
The story started strong, then it got a bit boring, and then it picked up pace so at the last part I couldn't put it down. The action is fast moving and the world building was imaginative.
If I had one complaint about the story, is that a lot of things is not explained at all, so it feels as if I started reading at book 3 in a series (it is not!). Now, this might be that it is my own stupidity that I need to have things spelled out before I "get" it, but still, it made me enjoy the book less. A more observant reader may not have this problem!
Anyway, it is a good fantasy novel with some very good elements, and I think it deserve a solid 4 stars.
I really liked Lindsay as a MC. He is frail and physically weak after two years of starvation and experimentation, but he is emotionally strong, and very brave. He adores Dane from the first time he saw him, and he is very open and honest about his feelings and his weaknesses. He is much younger and physically weaker than Dane, but still feels like an equal partner.
Dane is physically strong, but he is also broken, as he was much stronger before some event, but he was cursed and is now caught halfway between being human and being feral. He is not described as thoroughly as is Lindsay, and I feel as if I didn't get to know him properly.
The story started strong, then it got a bit boring, and then it picked up pace so at the last part I couldn't put it down. The action is fast moving and the world building was imaginative.
If I had one complaint about the story, is that a lot of things is not explained at all, so it feels as if I started reading at book 3 in a series (it is not!). Now, this might be that it is my own stupidity that I need to have things spelled out before I "get" it, but still, it made me enjoy the book less. A more observant reader may not have this problem!
Anyway, it is a good fantasy novel with some very good elements, and I think it deserve a solid 4 stars.
August 8, 2011
It takes a lot of imagination to create a fantasy world. It takes even more to make our existing world fantastical but still believable. That is what these authors have done. It's not wholly original - in fact, it reminded me a great deal of the movie "Push", only with magic taking the place of psychic gifts - but it is done very well. I enjoyed that movie, and this book. Magic exists and the government tries to control those who can wield it - for the good of all, of course. The story opens with Lindsay, locked in an asylum of sorts, about to undergo another painful experiment to remove his magic. The opening sucks a reader in immediately. Lindsay's power breaks loose and he manages to escape. Cyrus, who hears and speaks through the wind, sends Dane to rescue Lindsay.
This is an M/M romance, so naturally Dane and Lindsay will become a couple; and, there will be some steamy hot sex scenes of the explicit variety to fulfill our carnal appetites. But, what I liked was how Lindsay began as a damaged, naïve boy who actually grows with the story. He starts out needing and wanting Dane as the only person who has ever sheltered and protected him. So very realistic. The authors move him past that, allow him to see himself objectively, and choose Dane. Dane has some healing and growing of his own to do as well. The underlying plot/mystery isn't very deep because the romance is the driving story. Suffice it to say, those that held Lindsay want him back.
Overall, I really enjoyed this new world. The authors give just enough information to entice, without succumbing to info dumping. I was left intrigued, with a desire to know more about this world. This is obviously set up as the first of a series, and I will be back for more.
This is an M/M romance, so naturally Dane and Lindsay will become a couple; and, there will be some steamy hot sex scenes of the explicit variety to fulfill our carnal appetites. But, what I liked was how Lindsay began as a damaged, naïve boy who actually grows with the story. He starts out needing and wanting Dane as the only person who has ever sheltered and protected him. So very realistic. The authors move him past that, allow him to see himself objectively, and choose Dane. Dane has some healing and growing of his own to do as well. The underlying plot/mystery isn't very deep because the romance is the driving story. Suffice it to say, those that held Lindsay want him back.
Overall, I really enjoyed this new world. The authors give just enough information to entice, without succumbing to info dumping. I was left intrigued, with a desire to know more about this world. This is obviously set up as the first of a series, and I will be back for more.
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